many palestinians believe arafat was poisoned by israel. that is something that israel denies. lastly now, arafat's successor mahmoud abbas, had to authorize the exhumation that took place today but he was not there when it got underway. he is now on his way to new york to attend a session of the united nations. he is expected to attend the general assembly later this week on thursday. and to ask that the status of the palestinians be upgraded to nonmember observer state. that is something that israel and the united states hasn't indicated, they have indicated they will oppose. jenna? jenna: big story there and one to watch for sure. david lee miller in jerusalem, thank you. jon: and one of the big domestic stories, the fiscal cliff negotiations underway right now. entitlement reform is a big part of those negotiations. republicans say the nation must make adjustments to those costly programs. in exchange they say they're willing to compromise on taxes but so far no word from democrats. why? we have a fair and balanced debate next. >>> plus the supreme court breathing new life